Category: Italy

I’ve made a terrible mistake. I finally had the opportunity to hike up to the magnificent Drei Zinnen, the crown jewel of the Dolomites. I was fortunate enough to experience a sunset and sunrise there. The light was fantastic, clouds wrapped around the peaks. Magic. A dream come true. I took so many images. The horror came in the morning; I realized I shot all of them in basic JPEG.

Tourists. Tourists everywhere. On the streets, at Piazza San Marco, on the gondolas, in the churches. Everywhere. The city is extremely crowded, even in low-season. So much so that at certain times of the day the police have to make sure the masses can pass through the narrow alleys. Venice is a pulsing with life, but if you’re dreaming of taking photos of tranquil Venetian scenery, you might find it’s not that easy. But, there is definitely a way to take some impressive shots. Here’s how.

In my previous blog entry I was saying you should not drive in Sicily. But then again, I did a road trip there, so let me tell you the rest of that. Last time I mentioned Palermo and Scala dei Turchi, but before we drive to Ragusa, I’d love to give you a glimpse of the Valley of Temples, one of Sicily’s most popular historical sights – a collection of ancient Greek temples in Agrigento.

There are few things you don’t want to do when in Sicily. One of them is driving a car. I tell you, traffic on Sicilian roads is MAD. So if you do decide to take up the challenge, make sure you get a full insurance on that car. Beware of the fact that traffic rules are rather a guideline than actual rules and make sure you’re focused while driving.

Apart from this, Sicily is a bliss. I loved it. Not even the crazy traffic could ruin it for me. Beautiful beaches, mesmerising sunsets, even better daybreaks, stunning views over hills, charming little towns, historical sites, architecture, the smell of fresh laundry and strong perfume wherever you go, and of course great Sicilian food.

Let me give you a beautiful glimpse of Ragusa Ibla, the historical part of a little settlement in southeast Sicily. After being destroyed by the 1693 earthquake, this charming little town full of labyrinth-like alleys and fascinating architecture was rebuilt by the local aristocracy on the exact same spot.